The carrot, the awarding of greater assistance for companies that apply diversity plans, and the stick, the establishment of control mechanisms making it possible to fine discriminating companies, are the essence of the ten-measure plan. The aim of the plan, presented today by the Brussels Minister of Employment, Didier Gosuin, is to combat employment discrimination in the capital region, and was approved by the government this morning.
“The problem is evidence,” said Mr. Gosuin. “Many Brussels residents do not have the same chance of finding work as other do. Thus, the employment rate of people of Belgian origin is 71%, and on average 35% less in people who are from other European countries and the Near/Middle East.”
A plan with ten measures has been prepared incorporating a mix of incentives and sanctions.
One of the incentives is the government providing more assistance to companies that act in favour of diversity. The amount remains to be defined, but such aid would be “substantial”, promised Mr. Gosuin.
On the sanctions side, the Brussels government seeks to move to action. Mr. Gosuin will therefore propose a bill for a municipal law providing new regional inspection powers in employment. Inspectors will be able to control, on the basis of accusations or suspicion, employers who are resistant. The “mystery shopper” technique (false client, false job-seeker) could in particular be used.
Also, the Brussels Region seeks to raise awareness in communities regarding the problem of validation of diplomas obtained abroad.
(Source: Belga)
